Top 10 Best Handheld Microphones 2018

Updated: Dec 2018

At the heart of any good vocal performance isn't just a good singer, but a good microphone. Without the right mic for a particular environment, and without covering the necessary frequencies for singing/speaking styles, there's lost quality. Knowing the capabilities of a mic is the first step in pairing you up with the perfect weapon. We've put together our list of the 10 best handheld microphones, based on sales, social media, and website activity. Now, without further ado...

BEST VALUE: Behringer XM8500

As always, we take a moment to look at the best bang for the buck. Our pick is the Behringer Ultravoice XM8500. Not only do these mics have a solid feel to them, but they sound great for the price. These are superior choice for karaoke gigs, best man speeches, and other situations where someone else besides YOU is holding the microphone. (mic drops are so 2017) CHECK XM8500 PRICE

Shure BETA 87A

"Gain before feedback" should be a motto to live by when you're searching for the best handheld microphones. The Shure Beta 87A easily makes our list as a top choice for performers and emcees alike. The 117dB dynamic range and tight cardioid pattern ensures you get every frequency of your voice amplified. CHECK BETA 87A PRICE

Electro-Voice ND96

A shock-mounted capsule and coil guards give you the best possible performance when belting tunes in to the Electro-Voice ND96. The large diaphragm captures every breath of vocals, while the cardioid pattern is tight enough to handle a loud stage, making it a top performance mic in large venues. CHECK ND96 PRICE

Shure PGA48-XLR

Want a high-quality handheld mic without the big price tag? The Shure PGA48 handheld series is a best seller, with a carioid pattern that rejects unwanted noise. This unit comes with or without a cable to adapt to XLR or 1/4" inputs. A solid choice for less careful individual. CHECK PGA48 PRICE

Shure BETA 58A

Superior studio sound doesn't come with just any microphone. The Shure Beta 58A drives high gain, and the frequency response is designed specifically for vocals. This unit is the perfect handheld mic for recording your next platinum-selling album. CHECK BETA 58A PRICE

Electro-Voice ND76S

For the small-venue performers, the ND76S from Electro-Voice gets our vote as the best handheld mic. With the same great shock-mounted capsule as its bigger brother, the ND76S is exceptionally effective in both small and medium size venues, and delivers a warm, dark sound with every breath you take. This microphone is a versatile piece for any variety of vocal form. CHECK ND76S PRICE

Peavey Pvi 2

Another excellent choice for the budget-minded performer, the PVI-2 from peavey offers a high-quality shock mount, high frequency response, and durability that Peavey is known for time and time again. All at an affordable price of less than $50. CHECK PVI2 PRICE

Shure SM58S

Shure's SM58S steps up from the PGA48 with a cardioid pickup pattern designed to isolate the main source of sound. The built-in wind/pop filter helps eliminate unwanted noise, even in the the most hectic of stages. Brightened midrange and bass frequencies make it a perfect mid-level performer handheld microphone. CHECK SM58S PRICE

Sennheiser e935

The Sennheiser E935 was truly made for the hard-working musician. The Metal construction offers some of the best durability in the market, while remaining reliable in the harshest of environments. The e935 was designed to handle a variety of climates, making it perfect for indoor or outdoor use. CHECK E935 PRICE

AKG D5

Rounding out our list of best handheld microphones for 2018 is the AKG D5. This vocal mic was designed for both lead and backing vocals, and offers the perfect super-cardioid pattern for getting sound through when there's lots of noise around you. It's rugged build is excellent for shows on the road. CHECK D5 PRICE

So what's on your list for best handheld microphone for 2018? Got something better that we might be missing? Sound off in the comments!